A “staggering” gap between public and private schools exists in some subjects, according to Darren Burchall, head of computer science at Bermuda High School and CEO of education firm Great4Learning.

Mr Burchall is aiming to bridge the knowledge divide and feels “a productive and innovative partnership” between his company and the school would boost ability in science, technology, engineering, arts and maths in the public school sector.

He explained that the link-up would mean pooled resources and expertise to provide Bermuda’s students with modern learning opportunities.

BHS is a leader in Steam learning in Bermuda and has made a huge investment in equipment, training and development of its staff.

Mr Burchall said: “One of the main issues that we as educators, and Bermudians in general, must tackle is the division that exists between public and private schools.

“No matter whether they attend private or public school, they are all our children.

“During the first Steam Robotics Maker Academy three years ago, I noticed a very tangible difference between public and private schoolchildren who attended the event.

“A tour of public and private schools and meetings with public schoolteachers revealed to me that the gap is staggering and unacceptable.

“I decided I wanted to do something about it.

Mr Darrell said he had recently been hired to lead the computer science and information and communications technology department at BHS.

He added: “This appointment fostered a natural bonding and the creation of a partnership between the school and my company Great4Learning.”

This week’s Stem — science, technology, engineering and maths — Robotics Academy is the first joint venture of the partnership.

BHS’s multimillion-dollar Innovation Centre, which is under design and due to be completed in 2020, is an indicator of the school’s commitment to tomorrow’s leaders in technology.

Mr Burchall said: “As part of our shared vision we’ve planned a number of different events before the end of the year.

“While these are short-term plans, we’re now working on some long-term plans to help bridge the gap between both private and public schools.”

Events include a national coding competition in the first week of December, to be held during the Hour of Code, for all schoolchildren in Bermuda.

Great4Learning also aims to team up with the Bermuda Union of Teachers for “Steam In The Class”, training with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning.